What are the key differences between the tumour associated antigen and tumour specific antigen

Question 1

What are antigens

Answer 1

Antigens are molecules or molecular structures that can be recognised by the immune system, triggering an immune response. They stimulate the production of antibodies or activate immune cells to mount a defense against these perceived threats.

Question 2

Tumour Associated Antigen (TAA)

Answer 2

Antigens that are overexpressed on tumour cells but can also be found at lower levels on healthy cells.
Play a role in promoting tumour growth or survival but are not exclusive to tumour cells.

Question 3

Tumour Specific Antigen (TSA)

Answer 3

Antigens that are unique to tumor cells and not expressed in normal, healthy tissues.
Exclusive to tumour cells making them ideal targets for immune recognitionKey

Question 4

Key differences

Answer 4

TAA are more widespread because of their presence on normal cells but can be useful indicators of the presence of tumours.
TSA are main targets for immunotherapy as they can only be found on tumours